The Toronto Public Service today announced its 2011 fundraising goal of $1 million for United Way Toronto in front of an enthusiastic crowd of supporters in the rotunda of City Hall. Members of the Toronto Public Service are joined in their campaign by the following agencies, boards and commissions: Toronto Public Library, Toronto Zoo, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Toronto Parking Authority and Exhibition Place.

The Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Association and the City of Toronto's Administrative, Professional and Supervisory Association Inc. (COTAPSAI) donated a total of $31,000 toward the City's target.

Last week, United Way Toronto set its overall 2011 fundraising goal at $116 million.

"City of Toronto employees are consistently engaged in helping the broader community - and that is never more evident than during the United Way campaign," said Deputy Mayor Doug Holyday. "The money raised will help hundreds of thousands of people by creating opportunities for youth, building strong neighbourhoods, and helping newcomers get settled in Toronto."

"I want to commend all members of the Toronto Public Service and participating agencies, boards and commissions for their dedication and generosity in supporting such a worthy cause," said City Manager and Campaign Patron Joseph Pennachetti. "Workplace campaigns are a vital part of the fundraising drive and funds raised through these campaigns make a difference to those who need it the most."

Contributions can, for example, provide shelter for abused women, provide a newcomer with pre-employment training opportunities, enable at-risk youth to participate in educational and recreational school programs or counselling sessions, or give adults with physical or mental disabilities a chance to participate in programs to help them to live independently and stay engaged in the community.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.